Planning a trek in Karnataka’s Western Ghats? Book your trek online in advance

The Forest, Ecology, and Environment Minister Eshwar B Khandre launched the website https://aranyavihaara.karnataka.gov.in for booking trekking permits online and obtaining necessary clearances for treks in districts like Kodagu and Chikmagalur.

He announced stringent measures, including limiting the number of trekkers and banning plastic items such as water bottles and carry bags in the forest regions. Khandre said, “Plastic poses a significant threat to the environment and wildlife, necessitating strict enforcement of this ban. A two-phase inspection process will be carried out for vehicles entering forest areas and trekkers. In the first phase, individuals will be requested to voluntarily dispose of prohibited items in designated bins. During the second phase, inspections will be conducted, and violators caught with banned items will be fined.”

“These measures are necessary to control the adverse environmental impact caused by increasing footfall at trekking sites. Only 300 trekkers will be allowed per day on designated trekking routes to prevent overcrowding and to ensure minimal disturbance to the natural surroundings,” said Khandre.

The need for such a regulation was underscored by the chaos witnessed earlier this year when 5,000 to 6,000 tourists descended on Kumara Parvatha on a single day, leading to logistical challenges and environmental degradation. The online system will now facilitate the reservation of tickets for all trekking paths, providing trekkers the flexibility to choose alternative trails if one is fully booked.

Trekkers can book the Talacauvery-Nishani Motte, Subramanya-Kumara Parvatha, and Beedahalli treks in Kodagu and the Nagamali trek in Chikmagalur. Based on the availability on the selected dates, the website allows people to book their slots. Following which, the users have the option of adding visitors and can then proceed to the payment screen for online payment.

By the end of October, 40 trekking paths across the state will be integrated into the online platform. Furthermore, bookings for wildlife and boat safaris will also be made available on the same website. To streamline the process and avoid exploitation by private operators, each individual will be allowed to book a maximum of 10 tickets. Cancellation seven days prior to the trek will entitle full refunds, while partial deductions will apply for cancellations made after that, a Forest department official said.

Khandre also said that the government is cracking down on fraudulent practices by private tourism operators who purchase tickets in bulk, denying genuine trekkers the opportunity to participate.

In response, the online system mandates the submission of government-issued identification cards, such as PAN or driving licenses, along with the reservation to ensure accountability. “A more significant concern is the involvement of some Forest Department employees who were found to be colluding with private companies to block tickets at popular trekking spots like Skandagiri. Investigations have been launched, and a few employees have been suspended pending further inquiry,” said Khandre.

The government has also promised to create a mobile squad similar to those in the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to conduct random checks on trekking paths. Any trekkers found using fake tickets will face legal action.

To ensure that trekkers not only enjoy the experience but also learn about the rich biodiversity of the region, the government will appoint guides at a ratio of one guide per 10-20 trekkers. These guides will provide information about the flora and fauna of the area, as well as the local history and important safety measures to be followed during the trek.